Israel, Iran, US Exchange Strikes

Israel launched a series of strikes on Iranian government targets in Tehran, including Evin Prison and the security headquarters of the Revolutionary Guards, and roads around the Fordo enrichment facility. This followed Iran's missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities like Haifa and Tel Aviv, which were in retaliation for the United States' massive strikes on Iran's Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites. The United States' involvement has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, with Iran describing the U.S. actions as a 'very big red line' and a violation of its sovereignty. International bodies like the International — International Atomic Energy Agency are monitoring the situation, with its head, Rafael Grossi, expecting significant damage to the Fordo facility. Russia, an ally of Iran, condemned the attacks as 'unprovoked aggression,' while the European Union and Germany called for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy, particularly direct talks between Iran and the United States. Threats by Iran to close the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for oil transport, further exacerbate market concerns.